Live Review: Moses Sumney

Entering Magic Mirrors Spiegeltent is a near-spiritual experience as the sounds and light of the city dissipate and the audience can focus on the main act. In a black robe, Moses Sumney approached the stage with a moribund mystique and resembling a Nostradamus figure.

Moses Sumney's performance was spellbinding, transporting this Sydney audience from the hustle and bustle of a steamy Sunday afternoon and drenching the globetrotting Spiegeltent with a wistful reverence.

The lights moved from an eerie and powerful red wash to a softer purple and then calming blue as Sumney launched into his Lamentations EP. The results were spine-tingling, an accumulation of vocal and rhythmic loops moving to a soulful, funereal cacophony.

Sumney's obsession with death became clear through his witty banter. An inherently Pentecostal atmosphere took hold as audience members raised their hands in joyful confusion.

Although self-effacing outside of the musical numbers, Sumney commanded attention and awe through vivacious performances of his songs that showcased his vast vocal range, which was purest and most touching in its highest register.

The Spiegeltent proved the perfect location for Sumney's magical second Australian show. With shades of Jeff Buckley, Bon Iver, D'Angelo, Patrick Watson and Michael Kiwanuka, Sumney demonstrated striking vocal and choral constructions, soulful ballads, gripping and poignant vocals and stark, poetic lyrics. The performance will stay with its fortunate audience for some time to come.